Target-trap.



No. 827,945. l 'PATBNTED AUG-.7, 1906. L. A. SHERMAN;

TARGET TRAP.

APPLICATION FILED MAY 22, 1902.

5 SHEETS-SHEET 1.

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IPATENTED AUG. 1906.

L. A. SHERMAN.

TARGET TRAP.

APPLIOATION ITILED MAY 22, 1902.

a SHEEN-SHEET 2.

1\I @.s27,945. PATENTED AUG.7, 1906. L. A. SHERMAN.

' TARGET TRAP.

APPLICATION FILED MAY 22, 1902.

5 SHEETS-SHEET hei w v PATENTED AUG.- 7, 1906.

5 SHEETS- SHEET 4.

'L. A. SHERMAN.

TARGBT TRAP.

APPLICATION FILED MAY 22, 1902.

No.827 ,945. I I PATENTED'AUG/l, 1906. L. A. SHERMAN.

TARGET TRAP. APPLICATION FILED MAY 22, 1902.

5 SHEETS-SHEET 5.

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PATENT orrron SHERMAN, oF'KANsAS CITY. MISSOURI, ASSIGNOR or ONE-HALF TO'HARRY SHERMARQOF KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI.

'IARGET-TRAP.

no. as was.

- Specification of Letters Patent.

Patented Aug. 7, 1906.

Applicatioii filed m 'z'a, 1902. Serial to. 108,468.

To all whom it may concerns-f Beit known that I, LOUIE'A. SHERMAN, a citizen of the United States, residing at Kansas City, in the county of Jackson and State of Missouri, have invented a new and useful Improvement in Target-Traps, of which the following is a specification.

This invention relates to target-traps. The object of the invention is to provide a construction of targettrap' which is simple and efficient.

A further object of the invention is to provide a target-trap which may be continuously,

operated.

A further object of the invention is to pro vide a construction of target-trap wherein the throwing movement of thetrap-arm is utilized in aiding the resetting'of the arm for the next throw.

A further object of the invention is to ro vide a magazine target-trap of simple an of ficient construction and arrangement.

Other objects of the invention will appear more fully hereinafter. l

The invention consists substantiallyin the". construction, combination, location, and a1 rangement of parts, all as will be niorefully hereinafter set forth, as shown inft-he accom= panying drawings, and finally pointedoutin the ppended claims.

Referring to the accornpa .2

" and to the various'views and reference-signs appearing thereon, Figure 11st: view in side 1 carrier-frame and the mechanism carried evation of an apparatus embodying the principles of my invention, a portion of the thereby beingbroken off. Fig. 2 isasectional detail view on the line 2 2, Fi 1, looking' in the direction of the arrow. ig. 3'is a view in side elevation of the carrier-frameand its associated;- parts, the supporting j the latter.

holds the targets in the magazine.

standard for said frame and the driving-shaft being broken off. Fig. 4 is a broken detail view in perspective of the follower which" Fig. 5 is a top-planview of the carrier-frame and carrier-arm and of the mechanism for actuating Fi 6 is a sectional view on the line 6 6, Fig. 3,looking in the direction of the arrows. Fig. 7 is a broken detail view in section on the line 7 7, Fig. 1, looking inthe d1- rection of the arrows, ,Fig. 8 is a broken detail view,inlon gitudinal sectionyof the carrierarm-operating shaft, the sect on being-on the a detail view, in rear elevation, parts in sec- 1 tion, of the driving mechanism. Fig. 11 is a sectional view on the line 11 11, Fig. 6, lookingin the direction of the arrows. Fig. 12 is a transverse section on the line 12 12, Fig. 11, looking in the directionof the arrows. Fig. 13 is a view in top plan of a magazine employed in connection with atarget-trap and embodying the principles of my invention.- .Fig. 14 is a view similar to Fig. 13, showing a displaced position of the parts. Fig. 15 is a view in side elevation of the construction shown in Figs. 13 and 14. i

The same part is designated by'the same reference-sign wherever it occurs throughout the several views.

- Referring to the accompanyingdrawings, referencesigns A, B, and C designate bracketsor standards constitutin the framework of the machine andupon w ich the various operating parts are mounted. Upon standard or bracket C is mounted a seat D, which may be of any suitable or convenient construction as, for instance, an ordinary bicycle-seittf-affording a convenient support or rest for the operator. Also supported upon bracket-or standard C is a table or plat- I form E, arranged in convenient position .to' support, the targets in quantity, enabling the operator to supply the same therefrom to the projecting apparatus or the magazine, as may e desired.v Tl'iis table or platform also affords a convenient support or rest for the arms or hands of the o erator when seated upon seat D. In suitab e bearings formed in the bracket or standard'B is a vertical shaft F, upon which is mounted a gear-wheel G and a fly or balance Wheel H, the function of l the latter element being to maintaina steadiness inthe operation of; the apparatus. 'Iransversely journaled .in the bracket or standard B is a short crank-shaft J, carrying the crank-arms K at the ends thereof in a manner similar to the crank-shaft and crankarms of a bicycle, andu on whichcrank-arms are mounted or carrie pedals L, if desired, the arrangement being such as to enablean operator seated u on the seat D to impart rotation 1*) crank-s aft J with his feet-through the pedals Land cranky-arms Mounted upon crank-shaft J are bevel-gears M. N, the latter of which mtermeshes with bevel-gear G on shaft F, thereby imparting rotation to the latter. The bevel-gear M meshes with and drives a bevel-gear O, mounted upon a short shaft P, journaled in bracket or standard B.

Q designates a shaft suitably journaled in the framework and driven from shaft P or other convenient rotating part of the operating mechanism in any suitable or convenient manneras,for instance, through the intermeshing spur-gears R S.

T designates a standard suitably stepped or journaled in frame-bracket A for axial rotation or oscillation. (onnected to standard T is an arm V, arranged to be received freely through a slot or opening in a head A, ivotally mounted upon a rocking arm B. his rocking arm B is pivotally mounted intermediate its ends upon a stud or other convenient bearing on a fixed part of the framework and at its lower end is provided with an elongated slot C, in which operates a crank-pin D, connected to and operated from shaft Q.

From the foregoing description it will be seen that when rotation is imparted to shaft Q the crank-arm D, connected thereto, operating in elongated slot C, effects an oscillationi'n avertical plane of arm B about its supporting stud, or pin, and by reason of such rocking motion and the en agement in the slot in the swivel-head A 0? arm V an axial rocking movement is impartedto standard T in its journal-bearing in the framework, the

swiveling of head A upon 'arm V permitting such oscillatory movement of standard T. If desired and in order to reduce friction, the swivel-head may comprise anti friction-rollers, as clearly shown in Figs. 2 and 7, between which the arm V operates.

E designates a su plemental frame .uponwhich the carrier an It/S operating mechanism are mounted, as will presently be more fully explained. This frame E is pivotally supported upon standard T, as at F, and consequently is vibrated or oscillated when said supporting-standard T is rocked, as above described, about the vertical axis of said supporting-standard. The angular position of ame E with reference to its supportingstandard' may be adjusted or varied to give the desired angle to said carrier-arm in any suitable or convenient manner. For instance, in the form shown a segment-arm G- tating part K of a double-crank shaft suitably journaled in bearings formed in auxiliary or carrier frame E. Pivotally connected or supported upon carrier-arm J is a pawl L, arranged to cooperate with a segmentrack M, suitably supported upon frame E in an encircling relation with respect to the part K. This double crank is composed of the parts K N, which rotate axially and are in longitudinal alinement with each other, the crank-arms O P, and the connectin -pin Q. To the pin Q is connected one on of a stout retraotile spring R, the other end of said spring being GOIIIIGCtt d to a bolt S, arranged to extend through an opening in frame E, a spring T" being interposed between a nut- V, mounted on the threaded end of bolt S, and frame E. The spring R may be otherwise suitably connected to the frame E, if desired. Detachable stop devices A B? may be respectively mounted upon the carrier-arm J and frame E to form a stop or look for the carrier-arm J to hold the same in position preparatory to (projecting a target. Many specifically ifferent constructions of stop devices may be employed for this purpose. That form shown in my application for patent, Serial No.43,488,

filed January 16, 1901, Patent No. 696,763,

April 1, 1902, I have found to be efiicient for this purpose.

The arrangement of the spring R and its connection to the' cross-pin Q and crankarms 0 P is such that when carrier-arm J is in position, as shownin Fig. 5that is, the position thereof preparator to projecting a tar get-said arm being hel in such osition by the detachable locking devices A Ii /the line of pull exerted by spring R has passed the deadcenter of crank-arm P. This relative position of the parts will be made clear by reference to Fig. 5, wherein the geometric center of the dotted circle (designated by referencesign Q) is the point of application of the ten sion of spring R, tending to impart a rotation or'rotative movement to crank-arm P, and the small dotted circle (indicated by reference-sign C designates the point of attachment of the other end of spring R to frame E, and a line joining the oints C and Q in Fig. 5 will designate the ine of pull exerted by thespring R uponcrank-arms O P,.and it willbe observed that this line is to one side of the center of rotation of the part K of the double-crank shaft, and consequently when arm J is in the position shown in Fig. 5 preparatory to being released with a target the tension of spring R is applied in a manner to impart a rotative tendency to the doublecrank shaft. upon the part K of which carrier-arm J is mounted.

1 will now describe the power-actuated mechanism for setting the arm J, particular reference being had to Figs. 3, 5, 6, 11, and

12, wherein D designates a shaft suitably ICC p'ins F arranged off center with respect to the axis of rotation of shaft D said studs being received through an elongated slot or oplening G formed in a block H so that en shaft D is rotated a rotation is also imparted to block H but said block is capable of longitudinal movement upon the studs F said studs forming a guide therefor and also forming a means for applying the rotative power to said block. Carried by block H is a stud or projection J operating in a cam-groove K formed in a plate or disk L suitably mounted upon bracket E". This cam-track K is so relatively arranged that when rotation is imparted to shaft D such rotation is transmitted to block H to which a longitudinal reciprocation or movement is imparted by the in or stud J, traveling in cam-slot K If esired, the disk or plate L may be adjusted upon frame E, so as to regulate or vary the point of greatest longitudinal projection of block H This adjustment may be effected by means of securing- -bolts M operating through circular slots'N (See Fig. 12.) Pivotally mounted upon the end of block H is a projecting toe 0 having a flat front or engaging surface and a beveled rear surface, (indicated at P, Fig. 6.) The toe O is acted upon by a spring Q which permits a slight yielding movement thereof relative to'its supportingblock" H (lonnected to the part N of the double-crank shaft is a'crank-arm R arranged tobe eligagedby the front or engaging side or face of toe -O=-when block H is rotated and sufliciently projected by the cam-slotK whereby rotary movement is imparted to said crank-arm R and to the double-crank shaft.

The part of crank-arm R with which the pivoted toe O engages is beveled on its forward side, as indicated at S Fig. 3, and in dotted lines in Fig. 6, the function of which is, in cooperation with the rear beveledfsurface P of toe O and the yielding movement permitted arm R to overtake and pass the toe O wit withbut at a of block H the pivoted toe O out undue obstruction when said crank-arm R is moved in the same rotative directiongreater rate of speed than that The operation of this featurerier-arm. This rotary sweep or swing of said.

sa1d toe O by spring Q, to enable the crank-:

t "such that, if desired, the power mechanism carrier-arm continues about the axisof the tension of-spring R approaches a dead-center with respect to crank-arms O P. As this point is approached the cam-track K gradually withdraws block H and the toe 0 thereof out of engaging relation with re spect to the engaging part of crank-arm R and by the time the connecting-pin Q passes beyond this dead-center .to enable the tension of spring R to exert itself in imparting a rotative or swinging movement to carrierarm J the toe O -is entirely withdrawn from engaging relation with respect to crank-arm R and the carrier-arm J is held against the stop devices A B under the tension of spring R or in the position of the parts indicated in Fig. 5. Thereafter shaft 1) and block H may continue. their rotations and the projection B when sai stop devices are actuated and'i'gol' to'be given a rotary sp under theimpetus im arted by the tension of spring R. When t e sto devices A B- are released'or disengaged, t e spring R quickly swingsorfl rotates the double-camshaft, thereby swinging .arm J about the axis or rotation-of the part K of said shaft, and hence projectin the tar et, which has been previously place he carrier H. The momentum thus impartedto carrier-arm 'J' acts-upon said 'carrier arm'to rotate or swing the same in.a' single plane min a circle, and the pawl L thereon engaging in the rack-teeth M serves to prevent a, return movement in the oppo site direction. Thus it'wil-l be seen that car mentum'imparted thereto when the carrierarmJ is released from the stop devices A B aiding in effecting a complete circular swingv of said arm. It will also be seen that thedetachableclutch mechanism may be continuously operated, and in its swing carriers arm J- or its actuating crank-arm R? may overtake and pass'the ivoted toe O,.the' yielding movement of sa1d toe permitting the free passage of said crank-arm past said toe.

.rier H describes a complete circle, the mm IIO The continuous operation, however, of the clutch mechanism, which includes the toe, will eventually overtake the carrier-arm in its arrested position, said arrest bein effected by the pawl L and rackM, an the carrier-arm J will again be forced or carried by the power mechanism in continuation of its-swinging or rotary movement into initial position preparatory to projecting a target.

will also e seen that the constructionis for placing the carrier-arm in initial position preparatory to efiecting a throw maybe arrested and the carrier-arm placed inits ini &

tial preparatory position by hand. The adjustment shown in Fig. 12 for cam plate or disk L serves to enable the exact point at which the toe may be disengaged from crank-arm R to be adjusted. Rotation may be imparted to shaft D from the drive-shaft A through the intermeshing bevel-gears B.

As above explained, the position of carrierframe E upon its supporting-standard T may be adjusted to vary the inclination at which the carrier-arm operates. It is also described how a rotary oscillation is imparted to supporting-standard T. It is necessary therefore, in transmitting motion from the power mechanism to the carrier-arm-actuating mechanism to provide for this rotary oscillation and inclination adjustment of the carrier-frame E. I have shown a simple and eflicient construction for accomplishing this result, wherein shaft-sections C D are respectively connected by gimbal-joints F G to shafts P and A The opposite ends of the shaft-sections C D are arranged to slide longitudinally through a hollow sleeve H. I have shown a construction of coupling connection between the sections C D which is simple and which I have found exceedingly efficient, wherein at its ends sleeve II is provided with longitudinal channels or grooves J cooperating with similar grooves or channels K formed in the shaft-sections C 1), thereby forming seats or ways in which may be arranged antifriction-balls L, the balls being retained in the pockets formed by the cooperating grooves J K by means of pins M By this construction of shaft-coupling from the power mechanism to the carrier arm-actuating mechanism I am enabled with the least degree of friction to secure the rotary oscillations of the carrier-frame-supporting standard T and the vertical inclination adjustment of the carrier-frame upon its supporting-standard.

Any specific form of carrier may be employed in connection with my invention. I have shown in the drawings a simple and efficient form of carrier which I have found suitable in the practical operation of my invention, and wherein the carrier (designated generally by reference-sign H in the drawings) is rigidlybolted or secured to the free end of carrier-arm J, and which comprises a plat' form or support Nflupon which is received the target. The carrier is provided with a curved track 0 of the usual construction,- against which the edge of the traget' rolls while being protected. A target-clamping lug P is mounted upon an arm Q pivotally carried upon the opposite side of supportingframe N from the curved guiding-track 0 a tension-spring R being connected to said arm Q to hold the'clamping lug or finger P in proper position. In the operation of the carrier a target is placed by hand or from a magazine or otherwise, as may be convenient,-

upon the supporting part N of the carrier. This work may be conveniently performed by the operator of the machine seated upon the seat. D, the operator successively placing the targets upon the carrier by dropping the same upon the outer surface of the part X thereof or the targets may be deposited upon the carrier from the magazine, presently to be described. No clamping of the target upon the carrier is necessary, the initial swinging movementof the carrier-arm when released serving to cause the target through its own inertia to bemoved in a direction for the peripheral edge thereof to be engaged in the track or guide 0 and between such guide and the clamping-linger P, the target being finally discharged with a rotary or spinning movement when the carrier-arm reaches the proper posit-ion in its swinging or sweeping movement. Thus it will be seen that it is not necessary to supply the targets to the center of rotation of the projecting arm, but they are placed upon the carrier at a point considerably off the center of rotation thereof or from a point to the rear of such center of rotation with reference to the direction of projection of the target, the desired clamping of the target in the carrier being effected through the tension'spring R I will now describe a construction of maga zine which I have found efficient in the operation of an apparatus embodying the principles of my invention, particular reference being had to 3, 4, 13, 14, and 15, wherein A designates an arm suitably supported upon the earrir r-frame E and upon which is mounted a circular frame B, having a central opening then-through of sufiicient dimensions to permit the targets to be dropped therethrough onto the carrier H when the latter is brought into proper position with reference thereto, as shown in Fig. 3. EX- tending vertically from the base ring or plate B are sections C of side walls, forming a containing casing in which the targets may be stacked the one upon the other. Pivotally mounted, as at D, upon the base-ring B are the levers E F, said levers being curved or bent into somewhat encircling relation with respect to the central opening through the base-ring B.. The front or free ends of levers E F are yieldingly drawn toward each other by means of a tension-spring G adjustably connected at its ends, respectively, to the levers or arms E F. A stud H is pivotally journaled-in the base-ring B and carries a cam Jflarranged to operate against the abutting or adjacent ends of levers E F, so'that when stud H is rocked said levers E F will be engaged by the cam J and swung about their pivots D and against the action of the spring G, the tensioxr of whit L is normally exerted to maintain the free'ends of said levers drawn toward each other. In Fig. 13 the cam J is shown in the position ICC thereof which permits the free ends of levers E. F to be drawn together or into close relation with each other, while in Fig. 14 the parts are shown in the position thereof when said levers E Fare spread apart by the operation of cam J. A stop K serves to limit, the extent of rocking movement of cam J Thestud H, by means of which cam J is rocked, may be provided with an arm L, by which said pin or stud H is rocked. The pin orjstud H .may be held in the initial position thereof, as shown in Fig. 1.3, in any suitable manneras, for instance, by means ,ofa retractile spring M, (see Figs. 3 and 15)- so that when said pin is rocked to cause the free ends of the arms or levers E F to be spread apart said rocking movement is opposed not only by the tension of spring G",

-which operates to draw the free ends of said arms or levers together or toward each other, but also such rocking movement of pin H is opposed by its retractile M the tension of which is constantly exerted to maintain cam J in the position thereof as shown in Fig. 13

and against its limitingestop 'KQ Suitably connected to each of the arms or levers E? F is a retaining plate or section N, whichwhen the arms or levers E F are drawn together or toward each other, as shown in Fig. 1 3, project slightly into the central s aceor opening through the base-ring B", suc projection being suificient to permit said-ring sections or plates Nfito form a ledge or support on opposite sides of said openingnpon which the lowermost target of the "stack orpile contained in the magazine rests at its edges. When,

however, the. arms or levers E Ffare s read apart .by the manipulation of; cam and from the position thereof as shown in .Eig-; -13 to the position shownin "Fig. 14, the suppoi ing-plate sections N" beingconnected to said arms orlevers are withdrawn from supporting relation with res ectto the lowermost 1 one of the vstack or pi e of targets contained inthe magazine, thereby releasing said lowermost target and permitting' thesameto fall through-the central opening of the basering B. It is important, however, to?siistain the remaining targets contained in the magazine so that only one target will be re-. leased when the levers E F are spread a art; To accom lish this result, I provlde au'xi iary levers.O suitably pivoted the base-ring B and carrying 'at. their ree ends clamping-jaws R. If desired, these clamping-jaws may be faced with felt, rub-1 her, or other suitable material, as indicated at S. The'auxiliar levers 0 1 are mounted on opposite sides 0 the opening through the base-ring/B and through any suitable connections are projected into the space of the o ening through the base ring'wheiilevers E F are separated andare from jection into such space 'whe saidleve'rs ro E) are drawn together; [Thus in posi- V O" P, T erefore when, levers E F are.

, t Qt u o tion of the parts shown in Fig 13 the clampseen that the clamping-jaws R are projected,-

and withdrawn alternately with respect to the, projections and Withdrawals of supporting ring-sections 0*. Therefore when the supporting ring-sections (I are projected into the space of the opening through the basering to form a supporting-ledge for the edges of the lowermost target contained in' the magazine the ohamping-jaws' R are with-.-

drawn, therebv'fiiermitting the entire stack of targets contained-in the magazine to rest upon the support afforded the lowermost target by the ring-sections N ever, the ring-sections N 4 are withdrawn to permit the lowermost target to be released, the clamping jaws R clampin relation with res set to the next target, t ereby supporting the stack or pile in the magazine, while the lowermost one is permitted". to drop through the; opening in the base-ring and onto the carrier. alternating movement of clamping-jaws R with respect to the movement of the supporting ring-sections onflanges N- may besecured in many difierent ways. I have shown a simple arrangement wherein bell-crank le p)1votally mounted at their anase plate or ring B and are vers A B are ends.

resp'ectivelcarried The desired When, howi,

I oo

drawn together. the. bell-crank levers A5 3 are rocked ina direction to swing the auir' jiliary levers O P outwardly, thereby withdrawingathe clamping-jaws R', and when said arms orlevers EfF are separated or spread apart the bell-crank levers A B are rocked in a direction to swing auxiliary levers O P toward each other to, project the clamping-jaws R into the space of the 0 ening throu h the base: ring B as-wil be clearlyun erstood. v

a It is desirable to constantly press the stack or pile oftargets contained in the magazine downwardly toward the. discharge-opening through the hase-ringB and to prevent displacement of the targets on' account of virations due to the release of the carrier-arm. This result may be accomplished in many specifically difierent ways. I have shown a simple manner of accomplishing the desired object, wherein I employ a follower-plate G having arms H terminating in a' downwardly-turned flange or end J is provided witha slot or opening K therein,

This flange and from the foregoing description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, it willbe seen that the follower-plate G is permitted to descend upon the rods L as guides as the targets are successively delivered from the magazine, thereby imposing upon the stack or pile of targets a downward pressure which aids gravity in effecting a feed of the targets from the magazine. It will also be seen from the peculiar construction of the guide-arms H with thedownturned slotted flange at their ends that while said.fol lower-plate is permitted an up-and-down sliding movement upon guide-rods L the rocking or tilting movement of the follower is prevented. Therefore the follower-plate Gr serves as a lock' to prevent displacement of the targets under the vibration imparted by the release of the carrier-arm. In order to enable the follower to be removed to permit of the insertion of additional targets in the 7 magazine, the'upper ends of guide-rods L are bent outwardly, as indicated at M thereby permitting the followerplate G to be slid down said inclined ends M of the guide-rods and out of the way of interference with the insertion of targets into the magazine, as clearly shown in Fig. 3. To ermit the follower to be raisedwhen desire it is provided with a handle N When the magazine is employed, it is desirable to provide means whereby the target holding and releasing devices of tlieinagazilfe may be actuated automatically whenever the can'ier-arm is brought into roper relation to receive a target. This result may be accomplished in any simple or convenient manner. I have shown an arrangement wherein I mount a rod or stem 0 upon the carrier-arm in position to engage the arm L which is connected to the cam studor in H1, (see Figs. 3 and 5,) so that whenever t e carrier-arm is brought into position to receive a target from the magazine the arm L is rocked by the engagement therewith of the pin or stud 0 thereby eflecting a separation of the levers or arms E F, and a target is released and is permittedto drop into position upon the carrier, and when the carr1erarm is released or thrown the pin or projection 0 passes on by the arm L, thereby permitting the return of said arm under the influence of its retractile M and the tension of-spring Gr to its initial position, as shown inFig. 13;

From the foregoing description it will be observed that the carrier. H instead of being pivotally connected to the carrier-arm J is rigidly connected thereto. I do not desire,

. however, to be limited to a rigid connection of the carrier to the carrier-arm. It willalso be seen that the carrier-arm describes a complete circle of rotation instead of being swung from retracted position to forward position and then returned or rocked or swung back in the opposite direction. In this manner, therefore, I make use of the impetus produced by the throw of the carrier-arm in aid 'ing the return of the carrier through the remaining portion of its complete circular rotacarrier either by dropping the same directly upon the carrier from the magazine, or in case the magazine is not employed they are deposited upon the upper surface of the carrier either by dropping the same by hand thereon or else by sliding the same laterally into place thereon when the carrier is in the position thereof preparatory to being discharged or as it approaches that position, and hence the targets are deposited upon the carrier from a point off the center of rotation of the carrierarm. It will also be seen that I provide a detachable coiipling by which the carrier-arm is returned to its initial position preparatory to discharging a target by a detachable clutching mechanism which cooperates with the t spring, under the tension of which the carrierparted to the carrier-frame during the continuous operation of the apparatus, which is a desirable feature in targettraps in order to prevent the throwing of the targets constantly in the same direction, as the marksman is not apprised in advance of the particulardirection in which the target is to be thrown, andvin the accomplishment of this result I provide a construction of powertransmitting shaft embodying a ball-bearing feather which permits the swinging or oscillating movement of the carrier-frame. It will also ,be observed that I provide an exceedingly simple and efiicient construction of detachable clutch mechanism by which the carrier-arm is positively and by power-driven xtiOBS of the various features of my invention mechanism, returned to position to be actuand the best form in which I have embodied the same in practical.operatingmechanisms, I desire it to be understood that my invention is not to lie-limited or restricted to such specific constructions as shownand described;

butimany variations and changes therefrom and in the details of construction thereof would readily occur to ersons skilled in the 'art and still fall within t e spirit and scopeof m invention; but,

of my invention and a construction embodying the principles thereof, what I claim as new and useful and of my own invention, and desire to'secure by Letters Patent, is

1. In a target-trap, a carrier-arm mounted for rotary swinging 1movement, a. carrier mou ted thereon, means for imparting a throw to said'jarm, and continuously-operat- 2 o ,ing power-mechanism for completing said swing ng movementtoreturnthe arm to ini' tial position, as and for the purpose set forth. s 2. In a target trap,=a carrier-frame, a rotatable shaft mounted therein, a carrier-arm mounted on said shaft, a carrier mounted on I said arm, a tension-spring for throwing said rm, and power mechanismfor completing the circular swing of said arm to return the same to initial position, as and for the purpose set forth.

3. In a target-trappfa frame, a carrier-arm pivotally mountedthereoma spring connected to said arm for throwing the same, stop devices for maintaining said arm position prizlparatory to beingitliro'wn by said'spring, an continuously operating power mechanismfor completing {the rotary swing ofsaid arm to return the same to initial position pre- 'paratory to being released by said stop devices, as and for the purpose set forth.

4. In a' target-trap, a pivotally-mo unted carrier-arm, a carrier mounted thereon, a spring for throwing said arm about its plvot,

means for preventing the rebound or return of said arm in a direction opposed to the direction of swing thereof under the impetus of said spring, and automatic continuously-operating mechanismsfor completing the swingthepurpose set forth.

6. In a target-trap, a can'ier-arm,;a carrier rigidly mounted thereon, means for imparting a swinging throwto said arm, and automatically-detachable power mechanism" for avmg now set forth the object and nature set forth.'

12. In a targettrap, a rotatable crank-" completingthe circular swing of said arm to return the same to initial position preparatory'to be again thrown, as and for the purpose set fort i 7 In a target-trap, a carrier-arm-, a'carrier mounted thereon, a spring connected to said arm for throwing the same, detachable stop devices for holding said arm against the action of said spring, in combination with con,- t'inuously operating automatically detach.-

able 'power devices for positively completing the swing of said arm to return the same, when released, to its initialf position preparetory to being tripped, as and for the purpose set forth.

8; Ina target-trap, a piyotally-mounted carrier-arm, a carrier mounted thereon, a pro-' jecting spring connected to said arm, stop devices for holding saidarm against the action of said spring, means for arresting said arm against recoil action when released, and automatically-detachable continuously-operating power mechanism for completingthe rotary swing or sweep of said arm to return the same. position, asand for the purpose set to initial forth.

9. In a target-trap, a swinging carrier-arm, a carrier mounted thereon,'a spring for throwing said arm, stop devices for holding said arm against swinging movement,and continue ously-operating power mechanism for positively completing the swing of said arm when rele'ased to restore the same to'initial position, including detachable clutch devices op erating to be disengaged from said arm when, position, as and the latter attains its initial for the urpose set forth.

r 10. a target-trap, a carrier-frame, a shaft j ournaled therein, acarrier-arm mounted on said shaft, a crank-arm connected to said shaft, a spring connected to said crank-' arm, and operating to impart a rotative ten-,

sion to said shaft, a detachable clutch arranged to engage said crank-arm, and-continuously-operating power mechanism for actuating said clutch, as and for the purpose set forth.

11. In a target-trap, a rotatable shaft, a

carrier-arm mounted thereon, means for imparting a rotative tension to said shaft, stop devices for locking said shaft against rotative movement under the influence of said 'ten sion, whereby when said locking devices are tripped said shaft isrocked to project or swing. said arm, iii-combination with continuously operating automatically detachable power-actuated devices for completing the rotary'movement of said shaft to return said arm to initial position, as and for the purpose shaft, a carrier-arm mounted-\thereon," a w crank-arm connected to said shaft, a spring connected to the crank-arm of said shaft and operating to impart a rotative tension to'said shaft to project or swing said carrier-arm, a

rotatable clutch having a toe arranged to engage said crank-arm to complete the rotary movement of said shaft, and continuouslyoperating .power. mec hanism for actuating said clutch, as and for the purpose set forth.

13. In a target-trap, a carrier, a rotatable shaft upon which said carrier is mounted, a spring connected to said shaft, a crank-arm also connected to said shaft, a clutch-block, means far rotating the same, said clutchblock provided with a projecting toe ar ranged to engage said crank-arm, and means for shifting said clutch-block to move said toe into and out of engaging relation with respeet to said crank-arm, as and for the purpose set forth 14. In a target-trap, a carrier-arm, a spring for projecting the same, and power mechanism for restoring-said carrier to initial position preparatory to being projected, including a rotatable cam-block, an extension or toe carried thereby and operating to engage said arm, and means for shifting said cam-block to engage or disengage said toe from said carrier, as and-for the purpose set forth v 15. In a target-trap, a carrier-arm, a spring for projecting the same, a power mechanism for restoring said carrier-arm to initial position preparatory to being projected by said spring, including a rotatable clutchblock, a pivoted or'yielding extension or toe carried thereby devices intermediate said block and arm and arranged to be engaged by such toe, and means for shifting said clutchblock to project or withdraw said yielding toe into or out ofengaging relation with re spect to said intermediate devices, as and for t e purpose set forth.

16. In a target-trap, a carrier-arm, a spring for projecting the same, a power mechanism for restoring said carrier-arm to initial position preparatory to being projected by said spring, including a rotatable clutch-.

block, a cam-track arranged adjacent tosaid rotatable clutch-block, and a stud or projection carried by said block and operating in said cam-track to shift said clutch-block into and out of engaging relation with respect to said'carrier-arm, as and for the purpose set forth. s

17. In a target-trap, a carrier-arm, a spring for projecting the same, a power mech anism for returning said carrier to initial position, including a rotatable'clutch-block arranged to engage said carrier-arm, a stud or projection carried by said block, a cam engaging said stud or projection to shift said -clutch-block into and out of engaging relation with respect to said carrier-arm, an means for adjusting said cam, as and for the purpose set forth.

18. In a target-trap, a carrier-arm, means for actuating the same, a power mechanism for returning the carrier to initial position preparatory to being actuated, including a rotatable shaft, a shiftable clutchblock carried thereby and arranged to engage said carrier-arm, and means for shifting the position of said clutch-block relatively to its actuatingshaft, as and for the purpose set forth.

19. In a target-trap, a carrier-arm, means for actuating the same, a power mechanism for returning said carrier-arm to position preparatory to being actuated, including a rotatable 'shaft carrying eccentric-pins, a longitudinally-slotted clutch-block, said eccentric-pins operating in said longitudinal slot, whereby said clutch-block is rotated, but permitting a longitudinal movement transversely of said shaft, said clutch-block arranged to engage said carrier-arm, and a cam for shifting said clutch-block upon said pins, as and for the purpose set forth.

20. In a target-trap, a carrierarm, means for operating the same, a power mechanism for returning said carrier-arm to initial position preparatory to being actuated, including a shiftable' clutch-block, a yielding toe carried thereby, said toe provided with a curved surface on the rear side thereof, and means for shifting said clutch-block to project or withdraw said yielding toe into and out of engaging relation with respect to the carrierarm, as and'for the purpose setforth.

21. In a target-trap, a carrier-arm, a rotatable shaft upon which said arm is mounted, said shaft having a crank, a spring connected to said crank, whereby when said crank passes its dead-center the tension ofsaid .spring is'exerted to impart a rotary swingto said carrier-arm, power mechanism for positively returning said carrier-arm to initial position, including a clutch, means engaged by. said clutch for rotating said shaft, and means for detaching said clutch from engagement with said means when the line of tension of said spring passes the dead-center of said crank, as and for the purpose set forth. 22. In a target-trap, a carrier-arm, means for actuating the same and power mechanism for restoringsaid arm to initial position pre .paratorj to being actuated, including a continuous y anism operated by'sat'id shaft, devices intermediate said' clutch and arm for rocking the latter, and means for automatically detaching said clutch from engaging relation with respect to said devices when the carrier-arm reaches its initial position, whereby said shaft may continue its rotation without affecting said carrier-arm, as and for the purpose set forth. I 23'. In a targettrap, a carrier-arm, a carrier rigidly mounted on'said arm, a spring for throwing said arm, stop devices for holding said arm against the action of said throwingspring, and continuously-operating power mechanism for completing the swinging -rotatin'g shaft, and .asfll tch mech- ITO movement of said arm when released by said locking devices to return the same to its initial forth.

position, as and for the purpose set 24. In a target-trap, a main frame, a stand ard journaled therein to swing u on a vertical axis, a carrier-frame pivotal y mounted upon said standard for swinging movement a out a vertical axis, means for adjusting said carrier-frame about its pivot on said standard, a carrier-arm mounted on-said carrier-frame, means for actuating said carrierarm, and means for imparting rotary oscilla tions to said standard, as and for the purpose set forth. r

25. In a target-trap, a main frame, a standard journaled therein to swing about a vertical axis, v a carrier-frame mounted on said standard, a carrier mounted on said carrier frame, means for actuating said carrier, mechanism for automatically restoring said carrier to initial osition after the latter is actuated, means or rotarily oscillating said standard, and means for continuously oper ating said power mechanism, as and for the purpose set forth.

26. In a target-trap, a main drive-shaft, a carrier-frame, a carrier mounted thereon,

means for actuating said carrier, automatically-detachable clutch mechanism for restoring said carrier to initial position after being actuated, means operated by vsaid main power-shaft for continuously operating. said detachable clutch mechanism, and 'means also operated by said main power-shaft for imparting rotary oscillations to said carrierframe, as and for the purpose set forth.

27. In a target-trap, a carrier, a supporting-standard t erefo'r, an armconnected to said standard, a rock-lever engaging said arm, a shaft, means for rotating the same,

and connections between said shaft and rocklever for rocking the latter, whereby rotary oscillations are imparted to said sup ortingstandard, as and for the purpose set orth.

28. In a target-trap, a carrier, a suitablyjournaled sup o'rting-standard therefor, an arm connecte to said standard, a rock-lever provided with an elongated slot through whichsaid arm operates, a drive shaft proarm, said crank-arm enaging said rock-lever, whereby rotary-oscilations are im arted to said supportingstandard, as an for thepurpose set Y actuating the same, a frame upon which said 4 orth. 29. In a target-trap, a carrier, means for carrier is-mounted, means for oscillating said frame, a power-driven mechanism or restormg said carr er to 1n1t1al position lncludmg shaft sections, and feather connections between said shaft-sections torvpermit of relative lon 'tudinal movement thereof durin the oscil ations of said carrier-frame, as and for the Ipurpose set forth.

30. n a target-trap, a carrier, a supporting-frame therefor, and means for imparting rotary oscillations to said frame, in combination with power-driven mechanism for restoring sai carrier to initial position when actuated, including a drive-shaft, a shaft mounted in said carrier-frame, shaft-sections res ectively connected to said power-shaft an carrier-frame shaft by gimbal-joints, and a'sliding ball-bearing joint connection between said shaft-sections, as and for the purpose set forth.

31. In a target-trap, a carrier, a carrierframe upon which said carrier is mounted, and means for imparting rotary oscillations to said frame, in combination with power mechanism for positively restoring said carrier to initial position when the latter is actuated, .a drive-shaft mounted in said carrier-frame, and a power-shaft, shaft-sections respectively connected to said driveand power shafts by gimbal joints, a sleeve through which said shaft-sections operate, said sleeve and shaft sections being correspondingly grooved, and balls arranged in said grooves, as and for the purpose set forth. 32. In a target-trap, a naiupoWer-shaft, gears mounted thereon, a vertical shaft driven byone of said gears, a fly-wheel mounted on said vertical shaft, 8. stud-shaft driven by the other ofsaid gears on said power-shaft, a supplemental shaft driven by said stud-shaft, a carrier, means for operating said carrier, means actuated by said supplementalsliaft for imparting rotary oscillations to said carrier, and means actuated by said. stud-shaft for positively restorin or re turning said carrier to initial position when actuated, as and for the purpose set forth.

IOO

33. In a tar et-trap, a carrier, and means I for actuating t e same, in combination with a magazinecomprising a base-ring having an o enlng therethrough to permit the passage 0 a target, arms'or levers pivotally mounted upon said base-ring and carrying projections forming supports for the lowermost target contained in the magazine, auxiliary levers carrying clamping-jaws, connections between said arms or levers and said auxiliary levers whereby when the former are spread apart the latter are drawn together, andmeans for spreading said first mentioned arms or levers apart, as and for the purpose set forth.

34. In a target-trap, a carrier; and means for actuating the same, in combination with a magazinecomprising a base-ring having an openin therethrough to permit the targets to be ischarged therefrom, swinging levers pivotally mounted at one end and extending on opposite sides of said opening and carrying mwardly-extending holding projections or ledges, means normally tending to draw the free ends of said levers together, means for separating said levers to withdraw said supporting projections or lodges, and clampr 0 said base ring, auxiliary levers pivotally.

mounted upon said base-ring and carrying clamping-jaws, one of the arms of said bellcrank levers arranged to engage said auxiliary levers and the other of the arms of said bell-crank levers arranged 'to engage said first-mentioned levers, and means actuating said earn, as and for the purpose *set forth.

36. In a target-trap, a carrier, and meansior operating the same, in combination with I a magazine, and means for successively releasing the targets singly therefrom, and a follower arranged to bear upon the stack or pile of targets carried by said magazine and operating to prevent di iacement thereof,-

said follower having a otted arm and a guide operating in the slot in said arm as and for the purpose set forth.

37. In a target-trap, a carrier, and means for operating the same, in combination with a target-magazine, a follower pl'a'te having slotted arms or extensions, guiding-rods received through the slots in said arms or extensions, said arms or extensions provided with a downturned flange, as and for the .purpose'set forth.

38. Ina target-trap, a support for the target, said support having an unobstructed rear portion to permit the targets to be fed thereon from the rear, and means carried by said support for holding the target thereon.

39. In a target-trap, 'a support for the target, said support having an unobstructed rear portion to permit targets to be placed thereon from the rear, and contact-points carried by said support to hold the target thereon, one of said contact-points being fixed and the other movab e relatively thereto.

40. In a target-trap, a support for the tar get, said support having an unobstructed rear portion to permit tar ets to beplaced thereon from the rear, an clamping parts for the target, said clampingfparts being carried by said support, one 0 said clamping parts being fixed and the other movable relative thereto, and means for yieldingly drawing said movable part toward said fixed part.

41. In a target-trap, a support for the target, said support having an unobstructed the target therebetween, one of sai rear portion to permit targets to be received thereon from the rear, acurved clamping part carried by said support on one side thereon and arranged to partially embrace a target, and a cooperatinglclamping-lug mounted on the other side of t e support, one of these parts being yieldingly mounted.

42. In a target-trap, a support for the target, said support having an un bstructed rear portion to permit targets to be receiv ed thereon from the rear, a curved clamping part fixedly mounted on one side of said suport, and a cooperating clamping-lug yieldfiigly mountedflon the other side of the support.

4-3. In a target-trap, a throwing-arm and 'means for operating the same, in combination with a support for the target rigidly mounted on the free end of said arm, said support having an unobstructed rear portion to permit targets to be placed thereon the rear, and clam ing parts carried at the front portion of sai' support-to clamp or hold clamping parts being fixed and the other yieldingly mounted.

44. In a target-trap, a support having clamping parts at the forward portion thereof 'to receive the target therebetween, said support having an unobstructed rear portion to permit the targets to be inserted between said clamping parts from the rear.

45. A carrier for target-traps comprising a supporting-base having an unobstructed rear ortion roviding a rear feed opening, and 7 ed an yielding contact-points for holding a target on said base.

'46. A carrier for target-traps comprising a supporting-base having an unobstructed rear ppfirtion roviding a rear feed-opening, and ed an yielding contact-points for holding a target on said base, consistim of an arm and a post cooperating with sai arm.

47. A carr er for target-traps, comprising a supporting-base having a re: pivoted head, an unobstructed rear portion providing a rear feed-opening, and fixed and yielding contact- .point-s for holding'the target on said base.

48. A carrier for target-traps comprising a bottom support having an attaching -head and an unobstructed upper surface, an arm'- attaching projectionnear the rear portion of said base, an arm carried by said projection and a post cooperating with said arm to hold the target; the arm-supporting projection be ing separated from the post to leave an unobstructed rear feed-opening on the bottom support to permit the target to beinserted from the rear, and the. post and arm being made relatively yielding to permit escape of the target.

49. The combination of a throwing-arm, a

carrier, secured to the outer end thereof, having a base for supportin a target, anda fixedand yielding contact evice projecting up- ,in a complete circle, an

ward from said base near the outer end'ther'eof, said carrier being devoid'of all such ob,

structions above its rear surface as will prevent the movement, upon the base,.from the rear thereof into contact with said contact devices, of a target of large enough diameter to be properly restrained by said contact devices during the discharging movement of the throwingarm. s

50. A target-trap comprising a frame having a ratchet-faced portion, a rotatablymounted throwing-arm sup orted. by said frame, means for rotatin said throwing-arm a catch carried by said throwing-arm for engagement with, said ratchet -faced portion to prevent return movement of the'throwing-arm'after it has passed its throwing position. 51 A target-tra comprising a frame hav ing a ratchet-faced extension, a rotatablymounted throwing-arm, adapted to move in a complete circle, means for operating said throwing-arm, and a catch carriedby said ratchetthrowin 'arm for engagement With said ced extension after the throwingarmhas passed its throwing position.- 52. A traget-tra'p comprising a frame, a throwing-arm mounted uponsaid frame and ada ted to-move in: a complete circle, a ratchet-faced semicircular extension connectedwith the frame, a catch carried by said throwing-aLrmior engagement with said extension a'fterthe throwing-arm has assed its throwing position, springing means aving connection with said arm, and atri'gger for maintaining the arm in a fixed position While the springing means is being placed in active condition.

' In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand, this 3d day of March, 1902, in the presence of the subscribing witnesses.

LOUIE A, SHERMAN.

Witnesses:

SOLON T. GILMORE. 'JNO. M. Saunnnns, 

